President William Ruto, on Tuesday, March 24, addressed the controversy surrounding the alleged disappearance of former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju.
Speaking during his tour of Migori County, Ruto claimed that individuals close to Tuju misled him in what he suggested was a staged abduction.
The President alleged that those involved stood to gain politically and attract public sympathy from the incident.
President Ruto Breaks Silence on Raphael Tuju Disappearance Saga. Photo: Courtesy.
He further argued that Tuju was facing personal challenges, including pressure from auctioneers over his property, and needed genuine support to navigate the situation.
According to Ruto, Tuju had been persuaded to conceal himself before the narrative of an abduction was advanced publicly.
The Head of State moreover noted that Raphael Tuju needed proper counsel to recover his property, while criticizing leaders for dragging Uhuru Kenyatta into the saga.
“They lied to him. They asked him to go and hide in his bedroom, then claim that he was abducted.Tuju needs honest friends. He needs honest advice and help, not scavengers who are trying to milk the misfortunes of citizens.He needs advice so that he can be helped to save his property. Not conmen who have even invoked Uhuru Kenyatta’s name in their drama,”Ruto noted
The remarks came amid concerns the issue could affect Ruto’s support in the Nyanza region.
Tuju resurfaced after two days, claiming he had gone into hiding over security fears.
However, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations dismissed the claim, saying he remained at his Karen residence.
DCI boss Mohammed Amin stated Tuju would face charges for allegedly staging the incident.
A charge sheet shared by lawyer Ndegwa Njiru indicates he was charged with giving false information under the Penal Code.
